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Thrombolytic therapy in acute ischaemic stroke.
Lars Thomassen1, Ulrike Waje-Andreassen, Ase Hagen Morsund
1Department of Neurology, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway. lars.thomassen@haukeland.no
Cerebrovascular Diseases (Basel, Switzerland)
|March 27, 2002
Summary
Intravenous thrombolysis with tissue plasminogen activator is feasible and safe for acute ischemic stroke patients in a stroke unit. Clinical outcomes were comparable to larger studies, suggesting potential benefits.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Emergency Medicine
Background:
- Acute ischemic stroke requires timely intervention.
- Intravenous thrombolysis is a critical treatment option.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the feasibility, clinical effect, and safety of intravenous thrombolysis.
- To assess outcomes in patients treated within an acute stroke unit.
Main Methods:
- Twenty-four patients with acute ischemic stroke were treated within 3 hours of symptom onset.
- Treatment was administered in an acute stroke unit setting.
Main Results:
- Ten patients showed early clinical improvement; five had slow improvement.
- Twenty-one percent of patients died within 3 months; 42% achieved independence at 6 months.
- Complications included one intracerebral hematoma and two hemorrhagic infarctions without clinical deterioration.
Conclusions:
- Thrombolysis can be safely administered in acute stroke units without intensive care.
- Clinical effects and safety profiles were similar to those reported in large randomized trials.